How to Spot Severe Depression vs Feeling Depressed
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Depression is a clinical condition characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest in activities, and changes in appetite or sleep patterns. Feeling depressed is a common reaction to difficult life events and does not necessarily indicate clinical depression. Understanding the difference is important for people to seek the right kind of help and support.
Severe depression is a debilitating condition that can greatly impact a person's daily life. It's not always caused by major depressive disorder; which is what many people assume. According to clinical psychologist Dr. Romini; depression is on a continuum and at the milder levels; it may be misdiagnosed or co-occur with other conditions such as grief; adjustment disorder; or even a personality disorder.
As depression becomes more severe; the signs become more pronounced and are referred to as "vegetative symptoms." These include changes in appetite; sleep; and concentration; as well as feelings of worthlessness and apathy. People with severe depression may stop eating properly; sleep all the time; and have little contact with the world. They may also stop taking care of themselves and may not be able to function or work.
Dr. Romini notes that when depression reaches this severe level; it's likely a major depressive episode. However; it's possible that other factors such as a major loss may also contribute to the symptoms. Research shows that antidepressants are more effective at treating moderate and severe levels of depression than milder cases. It's important to seek professional help if you or a loved one is experiencing severe depression.
Depression vs Feeling Depressed
It is important to understand the difference between feeling depressed and having depression in order to effectively manage a diagnosis{1}. Feeling sad or blue is a normal human emotion that everyone experiences at stressful or somber times{2}. Sadness is a normal reaction to a loss; disappointment; problems; or other difficult situations{4}. However; depression is more than just feeling sad. It can be characterized by persistent feelings of sadness; emptiness; hopelessness; and worthlessness that last for weeks or months{3}. Other symptoms of depression include changes in appetite and sleep patterns; difficulty concentrating; fatigue; irritability; and thoughts of suicide{3}{5}.
It is important to seek professional help if you are experiencing any of these symptoms for an extended period of time. SAMHSA's National Helpline can provide resources on family therapy sessions and who can benefit from them{5}.
Depression vs sadness symptoms
Sadness and depression are linked; but they are not the same{1}{4}. Sadness is a normal human emotion that everyone will experience at some point in their lives; often as a reaction to stressful or upsetting life events{1}. Depression; on the other hand; is an overpowering and ongoing mental health disorder that can drastically impact daily life{1}.
The main difference between sadness and depression is that sadness usually passes with time; while depression may persist for weeks or months without any identifiable cause{1}{2}. Symptoms of depression may include constant feelings of sadness; lack of energy; difficulty concentrating; changes in appetite or sleep patterns; and suicidal thoughts{5}. These symptoms should not last more than two weeks if someone is just feeling sad{5}.
Family therapy can be an effective way to help distinguish between sadness and depression by exploring the role of family dynamics in recovery from mental illness or substance abuse{3}{4}. A doctor may also use diagnostic tools such as the DSM-5 questionnaire to help determine whether someone is experiencing sadness or depression{5}.
Signs of depression in adults
Depression is a complex mental health condition that can manifest in different ways. According to Dr. Romini; if a person's depression is more of a biological or genetic origin; it tends to show more vegetative symptoms such as low energy; high apathy; and changes in sleep and appetite. These symptoms may indicate a neural origin to the depression; as opposed to cognitive symptoms such as negative thoughts and feelings of worthlessness.
Signs of depression in adults can include persistent feelings of sadness and loss of interest; difficulty concentrating; decreased interest in usual activities; mood swings; irritability or anger; marked anxiety or tension; and suicidal thoughts or suicide attempts{1}{2}{3}{4}.
Depression can also co-occur with other serious medical illnesses such as diabetes; cancer; heart disease; and Parkinson’s disease{2}. Risk factors for depression include a personal or family history of depression{2}; as well as certain life events such as the death of a loved one or a major change in circumstances{4}.
How to help someone with depression
To help someone with depression; it is important to offer support and understanding; provide resources for coping; and recognize the signs of suicidal thoughts{1}{2}{3}{4}. It is also important to encourage them to seek professional help from a mental health provider or call the SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357){5}.
Dr. Romini also notes that while some people may be able to hide their mild depression; severe depression is impossible to hide. If a person is living with someone who is severely depressed; it's likely that the loved one would not miss it. However; if a person does not live with someone or does not see them often; it's possible for severe depression to go unnoticed.
- Seek professional help if you or a loved one is experiencing severe depression.
- Keep an eye out for changes in a loved one's behavior; such as changes in appetite; sleep; and concentration; as well as feelings of worthlessness and apathy. These are signs of severe depression and should not be ignored.
- Understand that depression is a complex condition that can manifest in different ways and may be misdiagnosed or co-occur with other conditions.
- Remember that antidepressants are more effective at treating moderate and severe levels of depression than milder cases.
- If you suspect that a child may be suffering from severe depression; it's important to seek help as the signs and symptoms may differ from those in adults.
- Focus on support strategies and treatment options for severe depression; such as therapy; medication; and support groups.
- Be aware of the fact that some people may be able to hide their severe depression; particularly if they have a routine or lack of close contact with loved ones.
Depression support groups
There are a variety of organizations that offer support groups for people struggling with depression{2}. These support groups can be found in person and online; allowing individuals to find the right group for them[1][2].
Mental Health America is a great resource to help find local support groups{2}; as well as the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA){3} and the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA){1}. Additionally; Verywell Mind provides reviews of the best support groups available for depression{4}. Finally; the SAMHSA National Helpline is a free; confidential service that provides treatment referrals and information about depression support groups{5}.
Online depression support groups
Online depression support groups provide a safe and welcoming space for people with depression and bipolar disorder to share experiences; discuss coping skills; and receive peer support{1}. There are many free online support groups; such as those offered by the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA){1}; SAMHSA's National Helpline{2}; 7 Cups{3}; and the LiveWell Foundation{4}. These groups offer general support for depression; grief and bereavement; post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); suicide; and more specific conditions or concerns causing depression.{5} Participants can access group leaders who are experts in the specific condition or issue causing the depression{5}. Online support groups can provide companionship and peer support when needed; which can help reduce symptoms of depression and self-stigma over time.{3}
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Depression treatment
Treatment options for depression vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. Common treatments include psychotherapy; antidepressants; exercise; and other therapies{2}{3}.
Psychotherapy is a form of talking therapy that can help people with depression understand their feelings and develop coping strategies. It can be used alone or in combination with medication{2}. Antidepressants are medications that can help improve a person's mood and relieve symptoms of depression.
Different types of antidepressants work in different ways; so it's important to work with a doctor to find the best one for you with the fewest side effects. Exercise has also been shown to be an effective treatment for mild depression. Other treatment options include light therapy; transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS); electroconvulsive therapy (ECT); and alternative therapies such as yoga; meditation; acupuncture; and herbal remedies.
It is important to consult a professional if you have symptoms of depression. The SAMHSA National Helpline is a free; confidential 24/7 service that provides treatment referrals and information about mental health services in English and Spanish.
Seasonal affective depression
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that is triggered by changes in seasons; usually beginning in late fall or early winter{1}{4}. It is more common in young people and women{3}; and those who live farther from the equator are at greater risk of SAD{4}. Symptoms of SAD can include fatigue; difficulty concentrating; irritability; and changes in appetite or sleep patterns{2}{4}.
Treatments for SAD can include antidepressants; light therapy; psychotherapy; and lifestyle changes such as exercise and healthy eating habits{2}{3}{4}. Family therapy can also be beneficial for people with SAD as it can help provide support and understanding within the family unit{5}.
SAD light therapy
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that typically occurs each year in the fall and winter{1}. Light therapy; which mimics outdoor light; can help with SAD and other conditions like depression and sleep disturbances{4}. Light boxes – also known as SAD lamps or light therapy lamps – are used for at least 30 minutes each day to mimic natural light{3}.
Light therapy has been shown to be an effective treatment for SAD; major depression; and perinatal depression{2}. It is little
SAD light therapy benefits
Light therapy is a popular treatment for Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and has been shown to be an effective treatment. This involves sitting near a special lamp called a light box; usually for about 30 minutes to an hour each day{1}. Light therapy works by encouraging the brain to reduce the production of melatonin (a hormone that makes you sleepy) and increase the production of serotonin (a hormone that affects your mood){1}.
Light therapy can help improve symptoms of SAD by helping to reset the body's circadian rhythm and balance serotonin levels{3}. Studies have shown that light therapy can be as effective as antidepressants or cognitive behavioral therapy in treating SAD{4}{5}. It may also be useful in the treatment of other forms of depression such as major depression and perinatal depression{4}. Light therapy is generally well tolerated with few side effects {5}; making it an attractive option for those seeking relief from SAD.{1}{3}{4}{5}}
Light therapy side effects
Light therapy is a popular treatment for seasonal affective disorder (SAD). This involves sitting near a special light called a light box; usually for about 30 minutes to an hour each day. Light therapy is thought to improve SAD by encouraging the brain to reduce melatonin production and increase serotonin production.
When choosing a light box; it is important to choose one that resembles outdoor light to help soothe the mood and reduce symptoms of SAD. Common side effects of light therapy include headaches; eye strain; and nausea. Additionally; some people may experience fatigue during the first week due to changes in their sleep and wakefulness patterns.{4} However; this should subside after the first week. Overall; light therapy has proven to be an effective treatment for SAD with minimal side effects.
Risks of light therapy for SAD
Light therapy is a popular treatment for seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and is thought to improve mood by encouraging the brain to reduce melatonin production and increase serotonin production. Light therapy involves sitting near a special light source; such as a light box; for at least 30 minutes each day.
Common side effects of light therapy include headache (19%); eyestrain (17%); feeling "wired" (14%); jitters/nervousness (8.8%) and nausea (15.9%){1}{2}. Other potential risks include restlessness or irritability; sleep problems; and eye damage if the light box is not used properly. It is important to follow instructions carefully when using a light box and to seek medical attention in the event of side effects.
Light therapy for SAD safety
Light therapy is a popular treatment for Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and has been shown to be an effective treatment in SAD{3}. This involves sitting near a special light called a light box; usually for about 30 minutes to an hour each day{5}. Light therapy works by encouraging the brain to reduce the production of melatonin (a hormone that makes you sleepy) and increase the production of serotonin (a hormone that helps regulate mood){5}.
Most people can use light therapy safely because the recommended light boxes have filters that eliminate harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays{5}. Studies have shown that bright light therapy can reduce the risk of SAD incidence by 36% {1}; however; the 95% confidence interval was very wide and included both effect sizes possibilities in favor of bright light therapy and those in favor of no light. therapy{1}. Therefore; more research is needed to determine its effectiveness.
Overall; light therapy is generally considered safe and may be beneficial for those with SAD{1}{2} {3} {4}.
Light therapy for SAD reviews
Light therapy is a common treatment for seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Light therapy lamps; also known as SAD lamps; are designed to simulate natural sunlight and may help reduce symptoms of SAD{1}{2}.
When choosing a light therapy lamp; it is important to consider the size of the screen surface; as larger screens are recommended by experts for more effective treatment{1}{4}. It is also important to speak with a physician before using a light box; as certain supplements; lifestyles; and medical conditions may reduce or negatively impact light therapy use{1}{3}.
Light boxes must emit at least 10;000 lux of illumination and be used for 30 minutes each day to be effective{5}. The best light therapy lamps should also have adjustable brightness settings and be easy to use{1}{4}.
The 4 best light therapy lamps of 2023 according to Wirecutter are Verilux Happy Light Luxe ($69.99; amazon.com or walmart.com); Circadian Optics Lampu ($69.99; circadianoptics.com); Carex Day-Light Classic Plus Bright Light Therapy Lamp ($79.99; amazon.com) and NatureBright SunTouch Plus Light and Ion Therapy Lamp ($89.99; amazon.com) {1}.{1}{2}{3}{4}{5}